The Most Important Things to Know About STDs

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) can be a handful to understand. Though the acronym might have changed (they used to be called STDs, or Sexually Transmitted Diseases), the symptoms haven't. To get you started on your path to sexual health, here are 3 things you need to know about sexually transmitted infections.

1. Some Are Curable, Others Are Not
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis (if detected early on), bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis and public lice are all treatable. Some with antibiotics, others with special shampoos. While you could get "lucky" and become infected with something that can be treated, you could also get something that isn't curable and be stuck with a "life sentence" of a virus. Herpes, (oral and genital), HIV, Hepatitis B and genital warts (HPV) are not curable. If you have a virus, that means outbreaks and serious communication with each sexual partner you'll ever have. That doesn't mean that your life is over, it just means that it may be different than you pictured.

2. The Most Common Symptom of STIs Is...None
So you're walking around feeling fine, knowing that you had unprotected sexual contact, and not noticing anything out of the ordinary. Feel good? Think again. The most common symptom of STIs is not to have any symptoms at all. Yes, we're all programmed to notice pain; but not as well attuned to notice nothing. Besides having no symptoms, some STIs carry with them bumps; a burning sensation when peeing; stomach cramps; discharge from the vagina or penis; warts around the genitals or anus; cold sores around the mouth, genitals or anus; pain with sex; and itching.

3. The Best Way to Protect Against STIs Is to Be Prepared
Get tested every time you have a new sex partner. And if not, get tested every 3 to 6 months. Think you'll be a nuisance? It's guaranteed that the folks at your local clinic will be happy to see you taking care of yourself. Have condoms, dental dams (square pieces of latex that are put over the genital or anal areas to prevent fluid absorption/transmission during oral sex), finger cots (like mini-condoms for your fingers), or latex gloves and water-based lube around. All the time. And do spot checks. That's right, have a look around your partners' genital areas for sores, blisters or warts before you get busy. Better safe and awkward, than sorry.